What is the penalty for bald tyres?

Monday 15th July 2024

Having bald tyres on your vehicle is illegal, dangerous, and a common reason for your car to fail its MOT. Formula One Autocentres looks at the penalties you could receive if you drive with bald tyres. 

What is a bald tyre? 

A bald tyre involves the tread being worn down below the legal minimum tyre tread depth of 1.6mm or the tread is worn away completely. This means your tyres have a lack of grip, leading to: 

• Punctures and blowouts 

• Increased stopping distances 

• Higher risk of aquaplaning 

• Reduced traction 

• Fines and penalty points 

What does a bald tyre look like? 

Typically, a bald tyre has little, or no tread left on the rubber. Therefore, the channels and grooves within the tread are worn, thus leading to a smooth tyre surface. 

Are bald tyres dangerous? 

Yes. Driving with bald tyres is dangerous as it reduces your vehicle’s grip and traction, particularly in icy and wet conditions. 

How many penalty points can I get for bald tyres? 

You can get three penalty points and a £2,500 fine per bald tyre on your car. If all four tyres are bald, it can rack up to 12 penalty points on your licence and a £10,000 fine, leading to you losing your driving licence. 

How do I know if my tyres are bald? 

There are many methods you can use to find out if your tyres are bald, such as: 

• The 20p coin test (This involves inserting a 20p coin into the tyre’s grooves).  

• Using a tyre tread depth gauge. 

• Checking the tread with a tread wear indicator. 

• Look out for smooth or flat spots on your tyres. 

If your tyres are bald or punctured, we recommend visiting your local Formula One Autocentre branch to get your tyres repaired or replaced. 

What can I do to prevent bald tyres? 

Regularly checking your tyres is essential for ensuring they remain safe and road legal. You can prevent your tyres from becoming bald by: 

• Ensuring your tyres are inflated correctly. 

• Checking your wheel alignment. 

• Periodically monitoring your vehicle’s tyre pressures and tread depth. 

• Regularly replacing worn tyres with new ones (Ideally, the tyre tread should be over 3mm). 

Do your tyres need replacing? Our tyre buying guide covers the aspects to consider when buying or replacing tyres for your car. Buy your tyres online and get them fitted the same day or the next day at one of our nationwide Formula One Autocentres branches.